[C320-list] Engine Muffler Winterizing

[Allan S. Field]

Warren - I also implemented this solution on my first boat about 20 years
ago.  Picture me sailing on the Patapsco in February, going below for a
minute, and standing in 4 inches of seawater.  It took me a few minutes to
locate the problem.  When I cut the intake hose, I installed a 3-way valve
in the line with a hose off one of the connections that went to the
anti-freeze bucket.  Adding the 3-way added just enough extra run to the
hose that allowed the alternator belt to wear a small hole through the
intake hose.  Since everything was below the waterline, 4 inches of very
cold seawater in the cabin.  The only thing that would have been worse was
instead of having 4 inches of water up over my ankles would have been a
sinking with very cold water up to my neck!  Lesson learned - make very sure
the intake hose is clear of all belts! 

Finally, I first drain the aqua lift muffler into the bilge by opening the
small petcock.  I then use a wet vac to clear the bilge, then winterize as
you describe. - Allan

-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Warren Updike
Sent: Tuesday, September 08, 2009 9:06 AM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Engine Muffler Winterizing

Amanda Lu, after wrestling with this for three years, I finally cut the hose
at a convenient place and inserted an automotive flush connection. You can
buy these at any auto store. It has a screw-on cap with the same threads as
a garden hose. I have a short section of hose I attach to this connection
and stick in a bucket of antifreeze (not the same stuff used for the potable
water system.)  It only takes about one minute of engine time for the bucket
to empty. I have someone outside to insure that the color is showing at the
exhaust. Makes the job a no-brainer.

Warren & Pattie Updike
Catalina 320, #62, "Warr De Mar"
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay




-----Original Message-----
From: Mike Ott [mailto:wmo48 at yahoo.com] 
Sent: Monday, September 07, 2009 10:11 AM
To: Catalina 320 Association
Subject: [C320-list] Engine Muffler Winterizing

Does anyone have any tips on winterizing the engine raw water muffler ? 
What about the exhaust lines ?  Raw water feed to the engine ?
Thanks in advance,
Mike
"Amanda Lu"
#508